Gulfstream names Hettel steward

Gulfstream Park has appointed Bernie Hettel as one of its association stewards for the 2007 meet, which begins on Jan. 3.

Hettel, 56, is a native of Louisville, Ky. He began his racing career more than 30 years ago as an entry clerk at Kentucky tracks and rose quickly through the ranks to become executive director and chief steward of the Kentucky Horse Racing Authority in the mid-1980's. He held that position until tendering his resignation in January 2004.

"Integrity at Gulfstream Park has been a constant, and Bernie Hettel's reputation is impeccable," said Gulfstream's vice president and general manager of racing Bill Murphy in announcing the new appointment.

Charles Camac and Jeffrey Noe, who have served as association stewards at Gulfstream in recent years, will split that duty during the 2007 meet, according to Murphy. Camac will work through the opening month of the session, with Noe completing the remainder of the meet, which runs through April 22. Kevin Scheen will return as state steward.